About the song
Few artists have left as profound a mark on popular music as **Elvis Presley**, a performer whose voice, charisma, and sheer musicality reshaped the landscape of rock and roll. Among his many recordings, **”Trying to Get to You”** stands as a particularly gripping example of his ability to fuse raw emotion with impeccable vocal delivery. Originally written by Rose Marie McCoy and Charles Singleton, the song was first recorded by the rhythm and blues group The Eagles in 1954. However, it was **Elvis Presley’s** interpretation, recorded in 1955 at Sun Studio, that truly brought the song to life and cemented its place in rock history.
From the very first notes, **”Trying to Get to You”** captivates with its blend of blues, gospel, and early rock and roll influences. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man’s relentless journey to reunite with his love, braving any obstacle that stands in his way. This theme of longing and devotion resonated deeply with **Elvis Presley**, who infused the track with a level of passion that makes it feel intensely personal. His vocal performance, filled with yearning and urgency, conveys not just the words but the very soul of the song.
One of the most striking aspects of **Elvis Presley’s** rendition is his use of dynamics. He begins with a subdued, almost spoken delivery before building to an impassioned climax, his voice soaring with an emotional intensity that few could match. The sparse instrumentation, featuring Scotty Moore’s subtle yet effective guitar work and Bill Black’s steady bass, provides the perfect backdrop, allowing **Elvis Presley** to shine. Unlike some of his later, more polished recordings, this one retains a raw, unfiltered energy—a hallmark of his early Sun Studio sessions.
Though it was not a major hit upon its initial release, **”Trying to Get to You”** has since become a fan favorite, often performed by **Elvis Presley** throughout his career. Notably, his 1968 Comeback Special version showcases the same passion and commitment to the song that he had in his early days. This ability to reconnect with his material, even years later, is a testament to his deep connection to music and his remarkable interpretive skills.
For those looking to experience **Elvis Presley** at his most heartfelt and electrifying, **”Trying to Get to You”** remains an essential listen. It embodies the raw power of early rock and roll while showcasing the emotional depth that made him one of the most beloved artists of all time.
Video
Lyrics
I’ve been traveling over miles
Even through the valleys, too
I’ve been traveling night and day
I’ve been running all the way
Baby, trying to get to you
Ever since I read your letter
Where you said you loved me true
I’ve been traveling night and day
I’ve been running all the way
baby, trying to get to you
When I read your loving letter
Then my heart began to sing
There were many miles between us
But they didn’t mean a thing
I just had to reach you, baby
In spite of all that I’ve been through
I kept traveling night and day
I kept running all the way
Baby, trying to get to you
Well if I had to do it over
that’s exactly what Id do
I would travel night and day
And Id still run all the way
Baby, trying to get to you
Well, there’s nothing that could hold me
Or that could keep me away from you
When your loving letter told me
That you really loved me true
Lord above me knows I love you
It was He who brought me through
When my way was darkest night
He would shine His brightest light
When I was trying to get to you